Framing a research project to explore the experiences of international staff in an Australian university

Abstract

[Abstract]: Overlapping concepts of globalisation and internationalisation are now firmly interwoven into the institutional fabric of universities, both here and abroad. Australian universities now enrol a significant number of international students and employ increasing numbers of international staff as academic teachers and researchers. Much has been written about the experiences of international students, particularly as they relate to their transition and adaptation to universities in Australia. However, there is less corresponding research about the experiences of international academic employees in Australian universities. This paper reviews existing and associated literature, including research that explores the experience of international students or transnational professionals. It uses this literature to establish the parameters of a research project to examine the experience of international academic staff at the University of Southern Queensland (USQ). Specific issues of transnational identity, academic cultures, cultural literacy and a sense of belonging will be examined.